light
ly
1
in a soft or delicate way, applying minimal weight or pressure
- She touched the baby's head lightly.
- He knocked lightly on the door, hoping not to wake anyone.
- The wind lightly rustled the leaves.
- He stepped lightly across the creaky floorboards.
- She placed her hand lightly on his arm.
2
to only a small degree or extent
- The eggs were lightly browned on both sides.
- He was lightly injured in the accident.
- The room was lightly scented with lavender.
- She was lightly dressed for the cold weather.
- The subject was only lightly touched on in the lecture.
3
in a cheerful or uncomplaining manner
- He accepted the delay lightly.
- She bore the bad news lightly and smiled.
- He spoke lightly despite the challenges.
- She took the criticism lightly, refusing to be upset.
- They handled the setback lightly, laughing it off.
4
in a quick and agile manner
- She danced lightly across the stage.
- The cat lightly leaped onto the windowsill.
- He moved lightly through the crowd.
- The gymnast landed lightly on her feet.
- He skipped lightly over the puddle.
Synonyms:
5
happening or achieved without difficulty or strain
- He lightly let go of the past.
- The money came lightly and was spent just as easily.
- She moved on lightly after the breakup.
- Opportunities were gained and lost lightly.
- He made friends lightly, wherever he went.